Stevie Wonder takes 'both knees' in response to Trump's NFL comments; other celebs speak out

— -- Stevie Wonder is among the celebrities speaking out in response to President Donald Trump's criticism of NFL players who kneel in protest during the national anthem.

While performing at the Global Citizen Festival in New York City, the iconic musician made a symbolic gesture in support of kneeling players.

"Tonight, I'm taking a knee for America. But not just one knee, I'm taking both knees," Wonder, 67, said onstage Saturday. "Both knees in prayer for our planet, our future, our leaders of the world and our globe."

His comments came the day after Trump sparked controversy by declaring at a rally in Alabama that NFL team owners should fire players who kneel in protest to highlight social issues. The president continued his criticism on Twitter on Saturday.

By Sunday, Trump turned his attention to football fans, saying that if fans were to stay away from games "until players stop disrespecting our Flag & Country, you will see change take place fast. Fire or suspend!"

Other celebrities have spoken out over the weekend about Trump's comments, including author J.K. Rowling, "Grey's Anatomy" star Jesse Williams, "Modern Family" actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Oscar winner and singer John Legend.

Rico Lavelle, who performed the National Anthem Sunday at the the Detroit Lions game against the Atlanta Falcons game in Detroit, concluded his performance by taking a knee and raising his fist. During the anthem, members of both teams locked arms in solidarity.